Guide to Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry is a term used to describe a number of treatments that improve the appearance of a patient’s teeth or smile.
Cosmetic dentistry procedures are usually elective in nature, although many also have restorative benefits for a patient’s oral health. Here are some of the most common types of cosmetic dentistry procedures:
Invisalign®
Invisalign® is virtually invisible and has many advantages over traditional braces which use metal wires. Your dentist can create a custom-made aligner tray that fits over your teeth to straighten them. The Invisalign® aligners can be removed so you can still clean your teeth.
Why Invisalign Aligners?
There is a lot of mention in the popular media about Invisalign aligners and how they may be of benefit for those looking to straighten their teeth. They are quickly becoming an alternative for those who have to where wire braces and are seen as a less invasive orthodontic treatment for individuals who also care about the aesthetic appearance of braces.
Invisalign treatments are found to be as effective a method for straightening teeth as traditional wire braces. This is especially true when using an experienced orthodontist, who can take a custom fitted mold of your teeth and have fabricated a clear set of aligners that fit your teeth.
The process is less invasive than the installation of wire braces and the added benefit derived is that you have the ability to remove your Invisalign aligners for maximum comfort.
Candidacy for Invisalign®
It’s actually easier to describe the person who is not a good candidate for Invisalign because the system works well for most patients. Any cavities or active gum disease should be treated prior to starting the Invisalign process. If you require oral surgery for a more serious dental alignment problem, such as an extreme overbite, Invisalign will likely not be able to correct the problem. For example, if orthodontic surgery is required to shift a patient’s jaw, Invisalign will not work in this instance, because it only shifts the position of the teeth.
If you already have dental implants or bridges, you may be excluded from Invisalign candidacy, but this is not always the case. Every situation is different and will require a consultation with your dentist. If a person has eroded or misshapen teeth, they may require more extensive dental work before Invisalign can be effective.
Restrictions for Invisalign®
As far as age restrictions, there is no definite cutoff. Even some children can be a candidate for Invisalign so long as all of their teeth have come in. Even teenagers can have difficulty with Invisalign, however, if their teeth are still growing.
The best way to determine whether Invisalign is right for you is to contact us to schedule an appointment at Oronoco Dental. We’re happy to consult with you and determine whether Invisalign will work to give you that perfect smile!
Teeth Whitening
A professional teeth whitening procedure is exactly what it sounds like — it’s a treatment that whitens your teeth. The products that your dentist uses for this cosmetic procedure are much stronger and more effective than over-the-counter teeth whiteners.
What Stains the Teeth?
Certain foods and drinks contain pigments that attach themselves to the tooth enamel, thus discoloring the teeth. These include; coffee, tea, as well as red wine. Cigarettes contain tar that makes the teeth brown, and nicotine that makes them yellow. Certain medications and age may cause the teeth to become discolored.
Here’s What You Need to know:
- Teeth Whitening Toothpaste Does Not Really Work. In most cases, whitening toothpaste is overpriced but does not work. The teeth whitening agents need to remain in contact with the teeth for some time for it to be effective. How long does it take for the average person to brush the teeth? There you have it. In as much as these whitening toothpaste might have the whitening ingredient, it does not have the slightest chance of working.
- The Process is Not Overnight. Though there might be a significant change after the first session of teeth whitening at the dentist’s, the procedure will take 3-4 weeks to have lasting results.
- Sensitivity is Normal. During the procedure, the whitening agent infiltrates the enamel and irritates the nerves therein. As a result, the teeth become sensitive. This wears off with time.
- Teeth Whitening Does Not Work on All Teeth. Teeth fillings, caps, veneers, and crowns do not react to teeth whitening. Likewise, discolorations as a result of tooth injury might not respond.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are a popular method of improving the appearance of teeth. But although they are usually thought of as merely cosmetic, they may also be used as part of a more general dental health treatment.
What are Dental Veneers
Veneers may be a simple application of composite resin or made to a custom specification from ceramic or porcelain material.
Ceramic veneers can be attached to the front of the patient’s teeth using an adhesive. Veneers are extremely useful and can be used to correct crooked teeth, gaps between teeth or cracked enamel on the surface of a tooth. They also look extremely realistic.
Composite veneers typically last for five to seven years and are less costly than the ceramic or porcelain type. Once fixed with bonding cement, these custom fitted veneers should last for a minimum of 10 -15 years.
Why Choose Veneers
Both types of veneer can be used to correct a number of perceived flaws in the appearance of teeth, including stains, discoloration, and chips. They may also sometimes be used as an alternative to orthodontic treatments, to disguise crooked or gapped teeth.
What to Expect from the Process
Composite resin veneers can be applied by a dentist as a single procedure, but the ceramic or porcelain kind will require an initial fitting session as well.
The dentist will ensure the suitability of the teeth to be treated by taking initial x-rays, and will then remove a thin sliver of natural enamel before preparing a mold to be sent to the manufacturing Lab.
It can take a couple of weeks for the veneers to be ready, but during this time you may be able to wear “trials” to help you get used to the feel of the finished veneers.
At the final fitting, the dentist will check for fit and color match and prepare your teeth before finally fixing the veneers. This procedure can take several hours depending on how many teeth are to be treated and may involve a local anesthetic.
Some gum soreness and tooth sensitivity are not unusual afterward, but this should only be temporary. You will normally be advised to attend a follow-up appointment a few weeks after your fitting to ensure that all is well.
For some people, veneers can dramatically enhance their appearance and self-confidence. But before considering any kind of cosmetic dental treatment it’s important that your teeth are in sound underlying health, so you should see your dentist regularly.
If you are thinking about a cosmetic dentistry procedure to improve your smile or a damaged tooth, you will want to speak with a dentist to determine whether you are a good candidate. Contact Oronoco Dental today and to schedule your next appointment.